Even now, we cringe knowing that these two very equipped smartphones are running the outdated Android 2.3 Gingerbread experience out of the box, but despite that, it’s masked by their customized interfaces. At their core, they both deliver the goods in their functionality and deep level of personalization. With Sony’s custom UI, it seems to be a bit cleaner with its presentation, which is evidenced by its translucent widgets and app drawer. However, with the LG Optimus 2.0 skin on the Nitro HD, it has a somewhat cartoony look with its boxy icons and bright colors. Honestly, we don’t find one to be superior to the other – meaning, it’ll vary on the individual’s personal preference.

Sony Xperia ion is running the UXP NXT interface on top of Android 2.3.7 Gingerbread

The
LG Nitro HD runs with LG's Optimus UI installed on top of Android 2.3.5
Gingerbread

Visually, their various organizer apps might differ in presentation and style, but regardless of that, they boast all the same functionality that we typically find on all other Android smartphones.

Even though their displays are separated by a mere 1/10 of an inch, they’re both more than effective enough in typing up messages without issues. In fact, their layouts are roughly the same size to provide comfort in steady typing, while their responses are equally instantaneous.

The on-screen keyboard of the Sony Xperia ion

Typing up messages on the LG Nitro HD

Processor and Memory:

Part of the reason why these two bad boys are priced so low is due to the fact that they’re utilizing the previous-generation Snapdragon chipset. Under the hood, these two devices are powered by the same 1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S3 processor coupled with 1GB of RAM. On the surface, it’s almost unrecognizable as to which one is the better performer, especially when they’re pretty quick with most operations. However, we do notice a subtle hint of choppiness with the LG Nitro HD’s movement with a live wallpaper activated – but still, it’s not bad at all! Aside from that one standout, there isn’t one that particularly jumps at us with the superior performance.

Out of the box, the Nitro HD’s microSD slot is preoccupied by a 16GB microSD card, which supplements its 1.88GB of internal storage. Though nice, it’s not as good as the 11.24GB of free internal storage of the Xperia ion – plus its available microSD slot.

Internet and Connectivity:

Needless to say, we’re spoiled nowadays since these two Android smartphones pack 4G LTE connectivity for wickedly fast data speeds. However, they’re marred by some choppy navigational controls as we’re perusing complex web sites like ours. Of course, heavy Adobe Flash content tends to make the choppiness more pronounced, but it doesn’t hinder the experience to the point of making it unbearable.

Browsing the web with Sony Xperia ion

Web browsing experience with the LG Nitro HD

Seeing that they’re both GSM smartphones, they’re perfect for international traveling, as they’re compatible to work with various GSM networks around the globe. Furthermore, they pack common connectivity features such as aGPS, Bluetooth, mobile hotspot functionality, and Wi-Fi. However, the Xperia ion is sure to benefit with mobile payments since it packs NFC.

They BOTH need to be upgraded to ICS before being compared to the monster that is the S3.

LG's new ICS skin looks much better and appears much more smooth and fluid than this cartoony crap of a android skin. Samsung made huge improvements over touchwiz a year ago and LG is just really late to the game. Let's just hope they don't forget about the Nitro because it has potiental, it's just held back by a poor UI skin.

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